Mikel Obi Bows Out, Thanks Nigerians

By Rufus Ike, Lagos

John Mikel Obi is quitting international football he announced on Thursday, a day after leading Nigeria to third place in the 2019 AFCON tournament in Egypt. Remarkably, he made the announcement in Egypt, the country where he made his first appearance for the senior national team in 2006

The former Chelsea player said that at 32, it was time for him to rest and let the younger ones take over.

In a photo of him donning the national jersey he said, “Egypt is a country where started and have finished my national career.

“In 2006, I played my first official championship for my country. 2019 African Cup of Nations marks my last championship for national team with Super Eagles.

“My national career started in 2003 under 17 World Cup and I’m grateful for the national team for placing me on the world arena and giving me an opportunity to show my skill and have an incredible national and international career.

“At the age of 32, it’s time for me to retire from the national team and let the youth take over, who’ve done an amazing job securing a bronze medal at AFCON 2019.

“Thank you to all my Nigerian supporters and to my country for all the trust, support and love you’ve shown me over the past 15 years.

“Mikel am out!”

Mikel played a total of 81 games for Nigeria scoring 6 times and assisting 5 goals. He mainly played as a central midfielder for the team.

He signed for Trabsonspor in Turkey, a club he signed for this July. The Jos born player has won one Champions League, 2 Premier League Titles, 4 FA Cups, 2 Carling Cups and one Europa League at club level.

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